Name availability · ND
North Dakota business name search
North Dakota uses a "distinguishable on record" standard, and the Secretary of State's FirstStop Business Search is the place to test a name. Trade names count, because a registered trade name gives its owner exclusive rights to that name in the state. The Secretary of State makes the final decision on availability.
How to check if a name is available in North Dakota
- 01
Search FirstStop
Go to firststop.sos.nd.gov/search/business and enter your name. Use "Advanced" to filter by record type so you can separate entities from trade names.
- 02
Pay attention to trade names
A registered trade name blocks other filings that aren't distinguishable from it, anywhere in North Dakota. Treat a matching trade name as just as serious as a matching LLC.
- 03
Keep the name to plain characters
North Dakota only accepts English-language letters and characters that appear in the standard ASCII table, so drop accents and special symbols.
- 04
Search the USPTO
Trade name protection stops at the state line. Check tmsearch.uspto.gov to see whether someone holds a nationwide trademark.
- 05
Check the web and social side
Look up the domain and handles. If you need alternatives, run ideas from our free tool at /business-name-generator/ through FirstStop.
North Dakota business naming rules
- Names must be distinguishable on the record under North Dakota Administrative Code chapter 72-03-02, and the Secretary of State makes the final call.
- Names must use English-language letters or characters as they appear in the ASCII table.
- Bank, banker, banking, trust, trust company and similar words need written approval from the Department of Financial Institutions.
- A trade name can't include company, corporation, incorporated, limited, LLC, LP, LLP or similar words or abbreviations unless the owner is that type of entity.
Reserving a name
If a name is available but you're not ready to register, North Dakota lets you reserve it for up to one year. Check the current fee on the Secretary of State's site.
DBAs and trade names
Trade names are registered with the Secretary of State through the FirstStop portal. Registration gives the owner exclusive rights to the name in North Dakota and must be renewed every five years.
Still looking for the right name?
Brainstorm dozens of options with the free generator, then run your shortlist through the North Dakota search above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check if a business name is available in North Dakota?
Search FirstStop at firststop.sos.nd.gov. North Dakota uses a distinguishable-on-record standard, and the Secretary of State makes the final decision.
Does a North Dakota trade name protect my business name?
Yes, within the state. A registered trade name gives its owner exclusive rights in North Dakota, but it doesn't protect the name nationwide.
How often do North Dakota trade names need renewing?
Every five years.
Can I reserve a business name in North Dakota?
Yes, for up to one year if the name is available. Check the current fee on the Secretary of State's site.
General information, not legal advice. Name approval is decided by the North Dakota Secretary of State; a name showing as available in a search is not a guarantee it will be accepted.